Stephen F. Austin State University, Dr. Brad Meyer, director

Hexachron channels the raw energy and intricate architecture of progressive metal through the lens of chamber percussion ensemble. While the bulk of the piece is written in 6/4, that meter is rarely felt straight-ahead. Instead, it’s refracted through layered polyrhythms, rhythmic illusions, and constantly shifting subdivisions that destabilize the listener’s sense of time - yet somehow regularly lock into a groove that feels instinctively right.

The harmonic language leans bright but unstable, embracing sharp dissonances, tritone-rich sonorities, and unexpected modulations that echo the genre’s love for contrast and surprise. At its heart, Hexachron is a deconstruction of rhythmic perception—a piece where time bends, pulses collide, and six never quite feels like six.

Two of his newest offerings are Wicomico Portraits (wind ensemble), which takes a nostalgic look back at his childhood on the shores of the Potomac River in southern Maryland, and his moving setting of the spiritual Deep River for string orchestra.

C. Alan Publications Becomes Exclusive North American Distributor for Jodie Blackshaw's Music

Greensboro, NC – December 5, 2024 – C. Alan Publications, a leading publisher and distributor of innovative and engaging music for wind band, percussion, orchestra and jazz ensemble, is thrilled to announce its exclusive partnership with celebrated Australian composer Jodie Blackshaw. Effective immediately, C. Alan Publications will serve as the exclusive distributor of Blackshaw's compositions in North America.

Jodie Blackshaw is internationally recognized for her groundbreaking contributions to wind band repertoire. Her music uniquely combines creative pedagogy with an emphasis on student-centered learning and holistic musical experiences, making her works highly sought-after by conductors and educators worldwide. With compositions such as “Vulnerable Joy,” “Peace Dancer,” and her “Teaching Performance through Composition” series, Blackshaw has redefined the possibilities of expression, collaboration, and inclusivity in ensemble performance.

“We are honored to welcome Jodie Blackshaw’s exceptional catalog to our roster,” said Nathan Daughtrey, President of C. Alan Publications. “Jodie’s music is not only innovative but deeply meaningful, offering conductors and students alike an opportunity to connect with music in profound ways. Her work aligns perfectly with our mission to provide outstanding repertoire that inspires musicians of all levels.”

Through this partnership, educators, conductors, and performers across North America will have easier access to Blackshaw’s celebrated compositions. The catalog will be available through C. Alan Publications’ website and music retailers, ensuring seamless ordering and customer support for all music lovers.

This exciting new partnership underscores C. Alan Publications’ dedication to curating an exceptional catalog of music that enriches the global music community.

For more information and to explore Jodie Blackshaw’s music, visit http://c-alanpublications.com/blackshaw-jodie.

Press Contact:
Nathan Daughtrey
C. Alan Publications
Phone: 336.272.3920
Email: contact@c-alanpublications.com
Website: www.c-alanpublications.com

C. Alan Publications Teams Up with Belgian Publisher Hafabra Music to Spread Musical Magic Across North America!

Greensboro, NC – December 5, 2024 – Get ready to strike up the band! C. Alan Publications, the beloved publisher of captivating concert band, percussion, orchestra and jazz ensemble music, is delighted to announce a harmonious new partnership. Starting immediately, C. Alan Publications is the exclusive North American distributor for Hafabra Music, the acclaimed Belgian publisher known for its enchanting repertoire of concert band compositions.

This exciting collaboration means more toe-tapping, soul-stirring music for musicians and audiences from coast to coast. Hafabra Music is celebrated for its inventive works that dazzle performers and listeners alike, featuring some of the world’s most imaginative composers. Now, North American musicians can explore Hafabra’s treasure trove of musical gems with ease.

“We’re over the moon to welcome Hafabra Music to the C. Alan family,” said Nathan Daughtrey, President of C. Alan Publications. “Their spirited and distinctive music adds a magical new dimension to our catalog. We can’t wait to share these extraordinary pieces with bands and ensembles across the continent!”

Hafabra Music’s entire catalog is just a click away on the C. Alan Publications website and from North American music retailers. From high school bands to professional ensembles, musicians everywhere can discover these delightful pieces that are sure to bring smiles and standing ovations.

Visit https://c-alanpublications.com/band/hafabra/ to explore this new world of sound and add a touch of brilliance to your repertoire.

Media Contact:
Nathan Daughtrey
C. Alan Publications
Phone: 336.272.3920
Email: contact@c-alanpublications.com
Website: www.c-alanpublications.com

"Creatures of the Wood" by Nathan Elliot Siegel is a collection of six intermediate etudes for the marimba that focuses on octave technique while holding four mallets. The feeling and imagery behind this collection is inspired by woodland creatures featured in fairy tales and children’s fiction such as "Wind in the Willows" and the many works of Hans Christian Andersen. Each etude focuses on a specific aspect of utilizing octaves in both hands with the four-mallet grip in mind. I hope these etudes will serve as both a pedagogical medium for teaching and utilizing octaves and a fun, lighthearted, and spirited musical collection for all marimbists.

Dedicated to flutist Hana Susaki, Tears of Hydrangea is an uplifting work for flute and marimba in a pop music style. It has also been scored for flute quartet.

Sarah has a Bachelor of Music Degree from the University of North Texas, where she performed in the Green Brigade drumline, and many different percussion ensembles, including the Gamelan, Afro-Cuban, South Indian, and traditional percussion ensembles.

This joyful piece plays like a warm blanket: beautifully simple, yet full and fun, and each phrase goes right where you want it to. No surprises - just straightforward for the performer, and easy on the ear for the listener.

We are proud to introduce an exciting collection of new compositions specifically crafted for young concert bands. Spanning three seres – Amethyst (Gr. 0.5-1.5), Sapphire (Gr. 2-2.5), and Emerald (Gr. 3-3.5) – this vibrant and diverse repertoire aims to engage and inspire young musicians while fostering a love for music. These works encompass a wide range of musical styles, from energetic and rhythmic selections that encourage precision and ensemble playing to lyrical pieces that allow young musicians to explore expressivity and phrasing. The repertoire includes works suitable for various skill levels, making it an ideal resource for bands in their formative years.

Learn More